Edison Doubles Abruzzo Wind Power Output in €200 Million Upgrade Project
Edison's Wind Farm Modernisation and Renewable Energy Expansion in Abruzzo
Project Overview and Investment
MILAN, June 26 (Reuters) - Edison has completed the full reconstruction of its wind farm portfolio in the central Italian region of Abruzzo, more than doubling the renewable power production of the plants, the Italian unit of French nuclear group EDF said on Friday.
Renewable Capacity Targets
• Edison is aiming to raise its renewable capacity from 2.3 gigawatt currently to 4 GW by 2030, making renewables 40% of its power generation mix.
Reduction in Turbines and Financial Commitment
• It said it cut the number of turbines on mountain ridges in Abruzzo by 73% and invested more than €200 million ($228.18 million) in the project.
Impact on Power Production and Households
Increase in Renewable Electricity Output
• As a result, annual renewable electricity production from the wind portfolio has increased 2.5 times to 355 gigawatt hours (GWh), enough to meet the power needs of more than 131,000 households.
CEO Statement on Energy Transition
• "Projects like this provide tangible proof that the energy transition can successfully combine technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and local economic development," Edison CEO Nicola Monti said.
Equipment and Future Potential
Local Sourcing of Equipment
• Part of the new equipment comes from a Vestas plant in Italy, the utility said.
Role of Plant Upgrades in National Wind Power Growth
• Edison said updating plants could play a major role in Italian wind power growth, noting that those suitable for upgrades account for around 6 GW of the country's 13.5 GW of installed wind capacity.
Potential for Additional Renewable Capacity
• Modernisation of existing wind sites could potentially add more than 13 GW of renewable capacity, helping meet Italy's national target of 26 GW of installed wind power by 2030.
Additional Information
($1 = 0.8765 euros)
(Reporting by Francesca Landini and Giancarlo Navach; Editing by Joe Bavier)
